2015 Draft Profile - Kristaps Porzingis

StrengthsPorzingis was a very intriguing international prospect last season who some believed could have been selected in the lottery last year had he come out. With another year to develop, Porzingis remains one of the top international players this season with a chance to be selected in the top-5.

A legit seven footer with three-point range, a quick release and solid athleticism, Porzingis is a very talented offensive player. He is quick enough to run around screens and score off catch-and-shoot or drives to the basket. While he isnít the strongest, he has shown a willingness to bang down low and can turn over either shoulder.

Defensively, Porzingis has the speed and quickness to guard multiple positions, and his length makes him difficult to deal with as he can be a factor in the passing lanes as well as challenging shots at the rim.

WeaknessesDespite having the height, and sometimes willingness, to be a post player, Porzingis lacks the strength to bang on the block and can be pushed out by stronger post players.

His tendency to play on the perimeter also hurts him rebounding as he averages less than five rebounds per game which has to improve with him being a seven-footer. His position in the NBA is also a question mark as his skills lean towards him being a small forward, but he has the size of a big man.

NBA Player ComparisonThe immediate comparison that many are tempted to make is Dirk Nowitzki. His game is similar to that of a young Dirk, but he has a long ways to go to get to the level that Dirk eventually achieved.

In all likelihood, Porzingis is more likely to be an athletic version of Channing Frye. He has tools worth developing, but whether he gets there, and how long it takes him (he is only 19 years old) will be the big question.